Think about food allergies when entertaining

Holidays, birthdays and the opportunity to unwind with good friends and some conversation are just a few of the reasons to host parties at home. Hosts and hostesses have several things to consider before hosting such get-togethers, including any food allergies their guests may have.

Entertaining guests who have food allergies makes menu decisions more difficult. According to estimates from the nonprofit organization Food Allergy Research & Education, 15 million American adults have food allergies. In addition, a 2013 study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that food allergies among children increased approximately 50 percent between 1997 and 2011.

Because food allergies are so prevalent, it’s important that party hosts take steps to keep their guests happy and healthy.

· Ask guests if they have food allergies. Encourage guests to discuss their food concerns with you before you plan the menu. While some guests may be hesitant to share such information, assure them that their comfort is your biggest priority. Keep a log of guests’ food allergies that you can refer to when planning the menu, and use this log when planning future parties.

· Prepare food safely. When preparing meals, take steps to avoid cross-contamination of allergy-inducing foods. Use different dishes, spoons and utensils when preparing meals. In addition, prior to preparing food, thoroughly clean all dishes you plan to use in an effort to remove any traces of allergens from past meals.

· Read all labels. Just because a food seems safe doesn’t mean that it is. Read packaging and labels carefully to determine if the product contains any allergens or if it was produced in factories where it might have been subjected to cross-contamination.

· Keep allergy-safe foods separate. Allow guests with food allergies to dig in prior to others so that serving utensils do not transfer allergens to other serving dishes. Place safe foods away from those that may trigger allergic reactions and label items carefully if you are serving buffet style meals.

· Research allergy-free recipes. Look for recipes that do not include many of the most common allergens, such as nuts, soy, dairy, and eggs.

· Express your concerns. If you are worried that you may inadvertently introduce an allergen into the foods you plan to serve, speak to your guests in advance of the party. Guests will likely be willing to bring dishes they prepare themselves to calm your nerves and ensure they don’t suffer an allergic reaction.

Food allergies can be challenging waters to navigate. But maintaining an open dialogue with your guests about food allergies can ensure your next dinner party is a success.